Tracking and analyses of content presentation

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for providing services are disclosed. One aspect comprises authenticating a user associated with a first service, receiving a selection of a second service, generating an opaque identifier associated with the user and the first service, wherein the opaque identifier facilitates the anonymous collection of data relating to the second service. Another aspect can comprise transmitting the opaque identifier to the second service, and receiving data relating to the second service.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 16/438,113 filed Jun. 11, 2019, which is acontinuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.15/812,904 filed Nov. 14, 2017, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,362,004on Jul. 23, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 14/552,991 filed Nov. 25, 2014, now issued as U.S.Pat. No. 9,853,951 on Dec. 26, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S.Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 13/647,159 filed Oct. 8, 2012, nowissued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,925,054 on Dec. 30, 2014, which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Users exhibit certain preferences and behaviors in response to contentsuch as user selections made from available content. The rapid expansionof user devices and associated functionality, such as electronic mailcommunication, network browsing, music and video downloading andplayback, and the like, will continue into the future. With manyfunctions, the user device or software executing on the device may beconfigured to collect data relating to the users' behaviors,interaction, preferences, and/or profiles associated with each activity.Content owners and providers may employ resources, e.g., third parties,to assist in the collection of such user-related data. However, currentsystems and methods are not sufficient to, among other things, collectdata relating to user activities.

SUMMARY

It is to be understood that both the following general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory onlyand are not restrictive. Methods and systems for providing services aredisclosed. The methods and systems described herein, in one aspect, canfacilitate anonymous collection of data relating to one or more servicesprovided to a user. As an example, services can be provided via a userdevice such as a portable communication device.

In an aspect, some methods can comprise authenticating a user associatedwith a first service and receiving a selection related to a secondservice. An opaque identifier associated with the user and the firstservice can be generated, wherein the opaque identifier facilitates theanonymous collection of data relating to the second service. The opaqueidentifier can be used in the collection of data relating to the secondservice in an anonymous manner. The opaque identifier can be transmittedto or shared with the second service.

In another aspect, methods can comprise receiving an opaque identifierassociated with a user and a first service. A selection of a secondservice can also be received. The opaque identifier can be registeredwith the second service and data associated with the second service canbe collected.

In yet another aspect, methods can comprise receiving an opaqueidentifier associated with a user and a first service. Authentication ofthe opaque identifier can be requested from a second service. Contentcan be processed using the second service and data relating to theprocessing or use of content can be collected. The opaque identifier canfacilitate anonymous collection of data.

Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description whichfollows or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realizedand attained by means of the disclosure, and elements and combinationsparticularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understoodthat both the foregoing general description and the following detaileddescription are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive,as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate embodiments and together with thedescription, serve to explain the principles of the methods and systems:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary network;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary system and network;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary system and network;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart of an exemplary method;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method; and

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, itis to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited tospecific methods, specific components, or to particular implementations.It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for thepurpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended tobe limiting.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms“a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” oneparticular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When sucha range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the oneparticular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, whenvalues are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent“about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms anotherembodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each ofthe ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, andindependently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described eventor circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includesinstances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where itdoes not.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word“comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and“comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intendedto exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps.“Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey anindication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used ina restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosedmethods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein,and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions,groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specificreference of each various individual and collective combinations andpermutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each isspecifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods andsystems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, butnot limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a varietyof additional steps that can be performed, it is understood that each ofthese additional steps can be performed with any specific embodiment orcombination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

The present methods and systems may be understood more readily byreference to the following detailed description of preferred embodimentsand the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previousand following description.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the methods andsystems may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, anentirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software andhardware aspects. Furthermore, the methods and systems may take the formof a computer program product on a computer-readable storage mediumhaving computer-readable program instructions (e.g., computer software)embodied in the storage medium. More particularly, the present methodsand systems may take the form of web-implemented computer software. Anysuitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized including harddisks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

Embodiments of the methods and systems are described below withreference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods,systems, apparatuses and computer program products. It will beunderstood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchartillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams andflowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by computerprogram instructions. These computer program instructions may be loadedonto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such thatthe instructions which execute on the computer or other programmabledata processing apparatus create a means for implementing the functionsspecified in the flowchart block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in acomputer-readable memory that can direct a computer or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus to function in a particularmanner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readablememory produce an article of manufacture including computer-readableinstructions for implementing the function specified in the flowchartblock or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loadedonto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to causea series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or otherprogrammable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process suchthat the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmableapparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in theflowchart block or blocks.

Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrationssupport combinations of means for performing the specified functions,combinations of steps for performing the specified functions and programinstruction means for performing the specified functions. It will alsobe understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchartillustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams andflowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purposehardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions orsteps, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computerinstructions.

FIG. 1 illustrates various aspects of an exemplary network in which thepresent methods and systems can operate. The present disclosure relatesto systems and methods for providing services. In an aspect, servicescan be monitored. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that presentmethods may be used in systems that employ both digital and analogequipment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that provided hereinis a functional description and that the respective functions can beperformed by software, hardware, or a combination of software andhardware.

The network 100 can comprise a central location 101 (e.g., a control orprocessing facility in a fiber optic network, wireless network orsatellite network, a hybrid-fiber coaxial (HFC) content distributioncenter, a processing center, headend, etc.) which can receive content,data, input programming, and the like, from multiple sources. Thecentral location 101 can combine the content from the various sourcesand can distribute the content to user locations, such as location 119,via distribution system 116.

In an aspect, the central location 101 can create content or receivecontent from a variety of sources 102 a, 102 b, 102 c. The content canbe transmitted from the source to the central location 101 via a varietyof transmission paths, including wireless (e.g. satellite paths 103 a,103 b) and terrestrial path 104. The central location 101 can alsoreceive content from a direct feed source 106 via a direct line 105.Other input sources can comprise capture devices, such as a video camera109 or a server 110. The signals provided by the content sources caninclude, for example, a single content item or a multiplex that includesseveral content items. In an aspect, the central location 101 can createand/or receive application, such as interactive applications. Suchapplications can be related to a particular content.

The central location 101 can comprise one or a plurality of receivers111 a, 111 b, 111 c, 111 d that are each associated with an inputsource. For example, MPEG encoders such as encoder 112, are included forencoding local content or a video camera 109 feed. A switch 113 canprovide access to server 110, which can be a Pay-Per-View server, a dataserver, an internet router, a network system, a phone system, and thelike. Some signals may require additional processing, such as signalmultiplexing, prior to being modulated. Such multiplexing can beperformed by multiplexer (mux) 114.

The central location 101 can comprise one or a plurality of modulators115 for interfacing to the distribution system 116. The modulators canconvert the received content into a modulated output signal suitable fortransmission over the distribution system 116. The output signals fromthe modulators can be combined, using equipment such as a combiner 117,for input into the distribution system 116. The networks may also be anend-to-end IP network utilizing appropriate components.

A control system 118 can permit a system operator to control and monitorthe functions and performance of network 100. The control system 118 caninterface, monitor, and/or control a variety of functions, including,but not limited to, the channel lineup for the television system,billing for each user, conditional access for content distributed tousers, and the like. Control system 118 can provide input to themodulators for setting operating parameters, such as system specificMPEG table packet organization or conditional access information. Thecontrol system 118 can be located at central location 101 or at a remotelocation.

The distribution system 116 can distribute signals from the centrallocation 101 to user locations, such as user location 119. Thedistribution system 116 can be an optical fiber network, a coaxial cablenetwork, a hybrid fiber-coaxial network, a wireless network, a satellitesystem, a direct broadcast system, or any combination thereof. There canbe a multitude of user locations connected to distribution system 116.At user location 119, there may be an interface comprising a decoder120, such as a gateway or communications terminal (CT) that can decode,if needed, the signals for display on a display device 121, such as on atelevision set (TV) or a computer monitor. Various wireless devices mayalso be connected to the network at, or proximate, user location 119.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the signal can be decodedin a variety of equipment, including a CT, a fixed or mobile computingdevice, a TV, a monitor, or satellite receiver. In an exemplary aspect,the methods and systems disclosed can be located within, or performedon, one or more wireless device, CT's 120, display devices 121, centrallocations 101, DVR's, home theater PC's, and the like. As an example, astorage device 122 can be in communication with one or more of the CT120, the display device 121, and the central location 101 tosend/receive content therebetween. As a further example, the storagedevice 122 can be located remotely from the user location 119, such asnetwork storage.

In an aspect, user location 119 is not fixed. By way of example, a usercan receive content from the distribution system 116 on a mobile device,such as a laptop computer, PDA, smartphone, GPS, vehicle entertainmentsystem, portable media player, and the like.

In an aspect, a user device 124 can receive signals from thedistribution system 116 for rendering content on the user device 124. Asan example, rendering content can comprise providing audio and/or video,displaying images, facilitating an audio or visual feedback, tactilefeedback, and the like. However, other content can be rendered via theuser device 124. In an aspect, the user device 124 can be an CT, aset-top box, a television, a computer, a smartphone, a laptop, a tablet,a multimedia playback device, a portable electronic device, and thelike. As an example, the user device 124 can be an Internet Protocolcompatible device for receiving signals via a network such as theInternet or some other communications network for providing content tothe user. Other display devices and networks can be used. The userdevice 124 can be a widget or a virtual device for displaying content ina picture-in-picture environment such as on the display device 121, forexample.

In an aspect, a storage device 125 can be in communication with one ormore of the user device 124 and the central location 101 to send/receivedata therebetween. As a further example, the storage device 125 can belocated remotely from the user device 124, such as a network storagemedium. In an aspect, the storage device 125 can store identifiers,keys, licenses, credentials, and authentication-related data. However,other information can be stored on the storage device 125.

In an aspect, a first service 126 can be in communication with one ormore of the CT 120 and the user device 124 to monitor (e.g., detect,sense, track, log, sample, etc.) use of and/or interaction with one ormore of the CT 120 and the user device 124. As an example, the firstservice 126 can be configured to monitor behavior of one or more usersof one or more of the CT 120 and the user device 124. As anotherexample, the first service 126 can be configured to monitor listeningand/or viewing habits of one or more users. As a further example, thefirst service 126 can comprise an advertisement delivery service.

In an aspect, the first service 126 can be configured to collect datarelating to the content being consumed via a particular device such asthe CT 120 and the user device 124. As an example, the first service 126can be configured to collect data, such as demographic data, preferencedata, habit data, and the like, relating to one or more users. As afurther example, the first service 126 can be configured to processcollected data for statistical analysis, ratings analysis, trendanalysis, security analysis, integrity analysis, and the like. In anaspect, the first service 126 can be configured to collect data relatingto a second service 128.

In an aspect, the second service 128 can be in communication with one ormore first services 126, one or more of the CT 120 and the user device124, and/or other devices. The second service 128 can be, for example, acontent delivery service, an authentication service, data collectionservice, access control service, software as a service, a computingdevice functioning as a service, and/or a user management device. Thesecond service 128 can be any service and/or system and can beassociated with one or more service providers. In an aspect, the secondservice 128 can facilitate distribution and/or presentation of data,such as content, to one or more of the CT 120 and the user device 124 orother devices. As an example, the second service 128 can comprise one ormore content players for converting an input into a renderedpresentation such as an audio or video presentation. In an aspect, auser and/or device can have certain user rights associated with thecontent that the particular user and/or device can consume. As anexample, a user may have the rights to store certain programming on adigital recorder, storage medium, buffer, or the like. As a furtherexample, a user may have rights to consume a particular content orprogramming. In an aspect, one or more second services 128 can determinewhether a particular user and/or device has appropriate rights toconsume certain content. As an example, once a particular user and/ordevice is authenticated as having appropriate rights, content can beconsumed via the particular device. As content is being consumed, thefirst service 126 can monitor the content and/or the user's interactionwith the device.

In an aspect, a system and network can be used to authenticate aparticular user and/or device for the consumption of particular content.As an example, once the user and/or device are authenticated,consumption of the particular content can be monitored. In an aspect,FIG. 2 illustrates various aspects of an exemplary network in which thepresent methods and systems can operate. In an aspect, provided aresystems and methods for providing services to a user device. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that present methods may be used invarious types of networks and systems that employ both digital andanalog equipment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that providedherein is a functional description and that the respective functions canbe performed by software, hardware, or a combination of software andhardware.

In an aspect, FIG. 2 illustrates various aspects of an exemplary networkand system in which one or more of the disclosed methods and systems canoperate. In an aspect, one or more of the first service 126 and thesecond service 128 can be in communication with a user device, such asthe CT 120, the user device 124, the Internet (or another local orpublic network), and/or a communication network to transmit and/orreceive information relating to content being delivered to or consumedby a particular user or device. As an example, other communicationsdevices or elements, such as software, virtual elements, computingdevices, router devices, and the like, can serve as one or more of thefirst service 126 and/or the second service 128. In an aspect, one ormore of the first service 126 and the second service 128 can be disposedremotely from the user location 119. However, one or more of the firstservice 126 and second service 128 can be disposed anywhere, includingat the user location 119 and/or in one or more of the CT 120 and theuser device 124, for example.

In an aspect, a time element 200 can be in communication with one ormore of the first service 126 and the second service 128 to provide atiming reference thereto. As an example, the time element 200 can be aclock. As a further example, the time element 200 can transmitinformation to one or more of the first service 126 and the secondservice 128 for associating a time stamp with a particular eventexecuted and/or received by one or more of the first service 126 and thesecond service 128. In an aspect, one or more of the first service 126and the second service 128 can cooperate with the time element 200 toassociate a time stamp with events having an effect on the contentdelivered to a user or an associated device, such as the CT 120 and/orthe user device 124. For example, events can comprise license request,license grant, subscription life-cycle, license denial, a channel tune,a remote tune, remote control events, playpoint audits, playback events,program events including a program start time and/or end time and/or acommercial/intermission time, and/or playlist timing events, and thelike.

In an aspect, a service identifier 202 can be associated with the firstservice 126. As an example, the service identifier 202 can be anaddressable element such as a uniform resource identifier (URI), uniformresource locator (URL), file link, hyperlink, executable code, icon,shortcut, or the like. The service identifier 202 may containinformation such as metadata or any other service related information.As a further example, the CT 120 and/or the user device 124 can initiatecommunications with the first service 126 using the service identifier202. In an aspect, the service identifier 202 can distinguish the firstservice 126 from other services and/or resources.

In an aspect, another service identifier 204 can be associated with thesecond service 128. As an example, the service identifier 204 can be anaddressable element such as a uniform resource identifier (URI), uniformresource locator (URL), file link, hyperlink, executable code, icon,shortcut, or the like. As a further example, the CT 120 and/or the userdevice 124 can initiate communications with the second service 128 usingthe service identifier 204. In an aspect, the service identifier 204 candistinguish the second service 128 from other services and/or resources.

In an aspect, a first user identifier 206 can be associated with aparticular user and/or user device (e.g., CT 120 and/or the user device124). As an example, the first user identifier 206 can be anyidentifier, such as a token, character, string, or the like, fordifferentiating one user or user device (e.g., user device 124) fromanother user or user device. As a further example, the first useridentifier 206 can identify a user or user device as belonging to aparticular class of users or user devices. In an aspect, the first useridentifier 206 can comprise information relating to the user device suchas a manufacturer, a model or type of device, a service providerassociated with the user device 124, a state of the user device 124, alocator, and/or a label or classifier. Other information can berepresented by the first user identifier 206. As an example, the firstuser identifier 206 can comprise user credentials for authenticating theuser with a particular service. As a further example, the first useridentifier 206 can comprise user credentials for authenticating the userwith the first service 126. In an aspect, the first user identifier 206can be generated by a user and/or assigned by a service, such as thefirst service 126, to distinguish a particular user and/or user devicefrom other users and devices. As an example, the first user identifier206 can comprise a user name and a passkey that can be processed by thefirst service 126 to authenticate the holder of the first useridentifier 206. As a further example, the first user identifier 206 canbe a transparent identifier relative to the first service 126. Atransparent identifier can be associated with known user informationstored and or accessed by the first service 126 to provide furtherdetails about the user and/or device associated with the transparentidentifier. As an example, a user may have a user profile withassociated personal information, demographic information, contactinformation, and the like. As a further example, the transparentidentifier can facilitate the identification of a user's associationwith a user profile. In an aspect, a transparent identifier can comprisea user name and/or demographic information such as age, gender, address,and the like. As an example, when the service issuing the transparentidentifier (e.g., first service 126) receives information tagged withthe transparent identifier, the service can process the receivedinformation by matching the transparent identifier with a stored record.

In an aspect, a second user identifier 208 can be associated with aparticular user and/or user device (e.g., CT 120 and/or the user device124). As an example, the second user identifier 208 can be anyidentifier, token, character, string, or the like, for differentiatingone user or user device (e.g., user device 124) from another user oruser device. As a further example, the second user identifier 208 canidentify a user or user device as belonging to a particular class ofusers or user devices. In an aspect, the second user identifier 208 cancomprise information relating to the user device such as a manufacturer,a model or type of device, a service provider associated with the userdevice 124, a state of the user device 124, a locator, and/or a label orclassifier. Other information can be represented by the second useridentifier 208. As an example, the second user identifier 208 cancomprise user credentials for authenticating the user with a particularservice. As a further example, the second user identifier 208 cancomprise user credentials for authenticating the user with the secondservice 128. In an aspect, the second user identifier 208 can begenerated by a user and/or assigned by a service, such as the firstservice 126 or the second service 128, to distinguish a particular userand/or user device from other users and devices. As an example, thesecond user identifier 208 can comprise a user name and a passkey thatcan be processed by the second service 128 to authenticate the holder ofthe second user identifier 208. As a further example, the second useridentifier 208 can be a transparent identifier relative to the firstservice 126. In an aspect, the second user identifier 208 can be anopaque identifier relative to the second service 128. As an example, theopaque identifier can facilitate the authentication of an anonymous userand/or device. The opaque identifier can comprise anonymous credentialsto facilitate authentication. However, the authentication of the opaqueidentifier may not reveal any further information relating to theauthenticated user and/or device. In an aspect, the opaque identifierallows a user to access a particular service without divulging personal,identifiable information. Instead, the accessed service can identify theuser as an anonymous user with an anonymous identifier.

In an aspect, the opaque identifier can be readable by the service(e.g., first service 126) that issued the opaque identifier, but may notbe completely readable or identifiable by a non-issuing service. As anexample, the opaque identifier can comprise a hash (e.g., hash-basedmessage authentication code secure hash algorithm (e.g., HMAC-SHA1)),message digest algorithm (MD5), and the like. As a further example, theopaque identifier can be encrypted, such as by using advanced encryptionstandard (AES), data encryption standard (DES), or other encryptionsystems. In an aspect, the opaque identifier can comprise one or more ofa unique identifier, a username, and/or a complete set of userinformation, including, for example, demographic information. In anaspect, encryption as an opaque identifier does not require the issuingservice or system to refer to a database of stored resources to retrieveuser information linked to the identifier. As an example, a non-issuingservice or system can use the opaque identifier to tag messagestransmitted to the issuing service, so that the issuing service canapply a user context to the communication (e.g., message).

In an aspect, an identifier generator 209 can be configured to createone or more identifiers, such as the first user identifier 206 and/orsecond user identifier 208. As an example, the identifier generator 209can be configured to associate one or more identifiers with a particularuser and/or user device. In an aspect, the identifier generator 209 canbe configured to generate the second user identifier 208 as an opaqueidentifier based upon the first user identifier 206. As an example, thefirst user identifier 206 can be used to authenticate a user at thefirst service 126 and the second user identifier 208 can be generated asan opaque identifier to facilitate anonymous authentication of the sameuser at the second service 128. As a further example, the opaqueidentifier may be anonymous to the second service 128, but transparentto the first service 126. Accordingly, any interactions of theauthenticated anonymous user at the second service 128 can be monitoredin a known, transparent manner by the first service 126.

In an aspect, a storage device 210 can be in communication with thefirst service 126 to allow the first service 126 to store and/orretrieve data to/from the storage device 210. As an example, the storagedevice 210 can store data relating to the first user identifier 206, thesecond user identifier 208, user rights data 212, service data 214,and/or user data 215.

In an aspect, the user rights data 212 can comprise information relatingto the permissions and/or entitlements associated with a particular userand/or device. As an example, the user rights data 212 can compriseinformation, such as subscription information, identificationinformation, location information, and/or timing information relating toa particular user or user device. In an aspect, the user rights data 212can be associated with a source of the content or particular items ofcontent. As an example, the user rights data 212 can be associated withauthentication to access the first service 126. The storage device 212can store information relating to users, user preferences, userinteractions, user habits, and user devices and configurations, amongother data.

In an aspect, the services data 214 can comprise information relating toone or more services such as the second service 128. As an example, theservice data 214 can comprise one or more service identifiers 202, 204to facilitate communication with one or more services. As anotherexample, the service data 214 can comprise configuration information tofacilitate the generation of a user identifier that can be used forauthentication at a particular service. As a further example, theservice data 214 can comprise information relating to communicationswith the one or more services, operational characteristics such as thenumber of users that can access the service concurrently, contactinformation for the entity operating the service, security certificatesthat protect the security/privacy of service interactions, and the like.

In an aspect, the user data 215 can comprise information relating touser experience settings, user viewing habits, and/or preferences for aparticular user. As an example, user data 215 can comprise image, video,and audio content preferences that can be provided directly by a user orcan be collected based upon user behavior or interactions. As a furtherexample, user data 215 can comprise content settings (e.g., genre,ratings, parental blocks, subtitles, version of content such asdirector's cut, extended cut or alternate endings, time schedule,permission, and the like), environmental settings (e.g., temperature,lighting, tactile feedback, and the like), and presentation settings(e.g., volume, picture settings such as brightness and color, playbacklanguage, closed captioning, playback speed, picture-in-picture, splitdisplay, and the like), which can be provided by a user or learned fromuser habits and/or behavior. Other settings, preferences, and/orpermissions can be stored and/or processed as the user data 215 such asviewing patterns & habits, duration of service use, and/or time-of-dayof service use.

In an aspect, a storage device 216 can be in communication with thesecond service 128 to allow the second service 128 to store and/orretrieve data to/from the storage device 216. As an example, the storagedevice 216 can store data relating to content data 218, user rights data220, user data 215, and/or data relating to the second user identifier209. In an aspect, the storage device 216 can store data relating tocontent transmitted or scheduled to be transmitted to the CT 120 and/orthe user device 124.

In an aspect, the content data 218 can comprise information relating tothe permissions and/or entitlements associated with a particular contentand/or device. As an example, the content data 218 can compriseinformation, such as subscription information, identificationinformation, location information, and/or timing information relating toa particular content, media, and/or programming. In an aspect, thecontent data 218 can be associated with a source of the content. As afurther example, the content data 218 can have time stamps or markersassociated therewith. In an aspect, the content data 218 can be used todetermine whether a request for a license to particular content shouldbe granted or denied. For example, a particular content offering canhave associated therewith content data 218 comprising requirements thatmust be met in order to grant a license to the content offering. Thestorage device 216 can store information relating to content,entitlement, users, devices and configurations relating to the same.

In an aspect, the user rights data 220 can comprise descriptiveinformation, and information relating to the permissions and/orentitlements associated with a particular user and/or device. As anexample, the user rights data 220 can comprise information, such assubscription information, identification information, locationinformation, and/or timing information relating to a particular user oruser device. In an aspect, the user rights data 220 can be associatedwith a source of the content. As an example, the user rights data 220can comprise user credentials, comparators, and the like forauthentication to allow user access to the second service 128. Thestorage device 220 can store information relating to users, userinteractions, user habits, user preferences, and user devices andconfigurations.

FIG. 3 illustrates various aspects of another exemplary system andnetwork in which the present methods can operate. In an aspect, one ormore of the first services 126, 126′ and/or the one or more secondservices 128, 128′, 128″ can be in communication with one or more of aplurality of user devices 124, 124′, 124″. The services and user devicesmay also be in communication with local or wide area network, such asthe Internet. One such network may be a communication network configuredto receive or deliver (or otherwise access) information relating tocontent being delivered to or consumed by a particular user. As anexample, other elements, such as software, virtual elements, computingdevices, router devices, and the like, can comprise or serve as one ormore of the first services 126, 126′ and the second services 128, 128′,128″. As a further example, one or more of the first services 126, 126′and the second services 128, 128′, 128″ can process user rightsassociated with content and/or programming to determine the permissionsof a particular user or device.

In an aspect, a service identifier 202, 202′ can be associated with aparticular one of the first services 126, 126′. As an example, a firstservice identifier 202 can be associated with a first one of the firstservices 126. As another example, a second service identifier 202′ canbe associated with a second one of the first services 126′. In this way,each of the first services 126, 126′ can be associated with a discreteservice identifier 202, 202′. As an example, one or more of the serviceidentifiers 202, 202′ can comprise an addressable element such as a URL.As a further example, one or more of the user devices 124, 124′, 124″can communicate with one or more of the first services 126, 126′ usingthe service identifiers 202, 202′.

In an aspect, a service identifier 204, 204′, 204″ can be associatedwith one or more of the second services 128, 128′, 128″. As an example,the service identifiers 204, 204′, 204″ can each comprise an addressableelement such as a URL. As a further example, one or more of the userdevices 124, 124′, 124″ and/or one or more of the first services 126,126′ can communicate with one or more of the second services 128, 128′,128″ using the service identifiers 204, 204′, 204″. In an aspect, one ormore of the second services 128, 128′, 128″ can communicate with one ormore of the first services 126, 126′ the service identifiers 202, 202′.

In an aspect, the identifier generator 209 can be configured to createone or more identifiers, such as opaque identifiers 300, 300′, 300″. Theidentifier generator 209 can be disposed in any location or network. Theidentifier generator 209 can be a stand-alone element or distributedamong devices and software. As an example, a user or device cancommunicate with one more of the first services 126, 126′ to generate orreceive one or more of the opaque identifiers 300, 300′, 300″. As afurther example, one or more of the opaque identifiers 300, 300′, 300″can be associated with and/or transmitted to the user to facilitateanonymous authentication of the same user at one or more of the secondservices 128, 128′, 128″. In an aspect, the received one or more of theopaque identifiers 300, 300′, 300″ can be stored locally in the device.As a further example, the opaque identifier may be anonymous to the oneor more of the second services 128, 128′, 128″, but transparent to theone or more of the first services 126, 126′. Accordingly, in one aspect,any interactions of the authenticated anonymous user (or device) at theone or more of the second services 128, 128′, 128″ can be monitored in aknown, transparent manner by the one or more of the first services 126,126′.

In an aspect, one or more of the second services 128, 128′, 128″ cancomprise a communication element 302 for communicating data between theone or more of the second services 128, 128′, 128″ and one or more ofthe first services 126, 126′ or other services or systems. As anexample, the communication element 302 can be configured to encryptand/or decrypt data. As a further example, data (e.g., user data 215)can be collected at the one or more of the second services 128, 128′,128″ and transmitted to one or more of the first services 126, 126′ inan encrypted form. In an aspect, one or more of the opaque identifiers300, 300′, 300″ can be used to encrypt data relating to or intended tobe associated with the opaque identifiers 300, 300′, 300″. As anexample, when a user is anonymously authenticated using one of theopaque identifiers 300, 300′, 300″, the one of the opaque identifiers300, 300′, 300″ used for authentication can also be used as part of theencryption process, such as a key, hash, or the like. In an aspect, datacollected can be transmitted asynchronously to one or more of the firstservices 126, 126′. As an example, data can be transmitted using variousprotocols, such as the POST/PUT command of the hypertext transferprotocol. However, other protocols can be used.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary method. The method illustrated in FIG. 4will be discussed, for an example illustration, in reference to FIGS.1-3. In step 402, a user and/or user device can be authenticated. In anaspect, the user and/or user device can be associated with the firstservice 126. As an example, the user and/or user device can beauthenticated by the first service 126. As a further example,authenticating the user can comprise authenticating user credentialsassociated with the user and the first service 126.

In step 404, one or more service options can be presented to the user.In an aspect, presenting the one or more service options can comprisepresenting one or more service identifiers 202, 204 presented to theuser. As an example, a user can selectively opt-in/opt-out the one ormore service options to be presented from a group of available services.As a further example, one or more of the service options can relate to aservice provider or a parameter relating to the service provided by theservice provider.

In step 406, a selection of a service can be received. In an aspect, theuser can provide an input representing a selection of one or moreservices. As an example, receiving a selection of a service can comprisereceiving a user-provided input relating to one or more of the serviceoptions presented in step 404. As a further example, a userauthenticated with the first service 126 can select one or more secondservices 128. However, such a selection can be received at any time. Inan aspect, the user can be prompted to identify one or more serviceswith which the user has or desires access. As an example, one or moreservices can be automatically detected and/or selected.

In step 408, a user identifier can be generated (e.g., created,retrieved, populated, associated, instantiated, and the like). In anaspect, the user identifier can be associated with the user and thefirst service 126. As an example, the user identifier can facilitate thecollection of data relating to one or more services (e.g., consumptionof such services). In an aspect, the user identifier can be an opaqueidentifier. As an example, the opaque identifier can be transparent tothe first service 126. As a further example, the opaque identifier canbe anonymous to the second service 128. In an aspect, the opaqueidentifier can facilitate the anonymous collection of data relating toone or more services. As an example, the user identifier can beuser-specific and/or device-specific to distinguish between users and/ordevices.

In step 410, the user identifier can be associated with the selectservice from step 406. As an example, the select service can be one ormore second services 128. In an aspect, associating the user identifierwith the select service can comprise transmitting the user identifier toa user device in communication with the select service. As an example,transmitting the user identifier with the select service can compriseauthenticating the user identifier with the select service. As a furtherexample, transmitting the user identifier to the selected service cancomprise anonymously authenticating an opaque user identifier with theselect service.

In step 412, data relating to the select service can be received (e.g.,collected, stored, routed, etc.). In an aspect, data collected from theselect service can relate to an interaction of the user with the selectservice. As an example, data collected from the select service canrelate to content processed by the select service. As another example,data collected from the select service can relate to consumption of thesecond service by a user and/or device. As a further example, datacollected from the select service can be associated with the useridentifier. In an aspect, the data transmitted from the select serviceto a first service is an opaque data token that identifies a time-offsetwithin a piece of audio/video media. As an example, the content of theopaque token can be unknown to the select service. As a further example,the first service can associate the opaque data token with an opaqueuser identifier and can send the opaque user identifier to the selectservice for anonymous data collection. Accordingly, in one aspect,during the collection of data, there is no indication to the user thatthe monitoring is occurring. As a further example, the user can beinformed during the use of the select service that such use can enablemonitoring of the user's activity.

In step 414, the data collected can be processed and in some aspects,the data collected can be encrypted. As an example, the data collectedcan be encrypted using the user identifier generated in step 408. As afurther example, the data collected can be transmitted to the servicethat generated the user identifier in step 408. As an example, data canbe transmitted using various protocols such as the POST/PUT command ofthe hypertext transfer protocol. However, other protocols can be used.In an aspect, processing the collected data can comprise statisticalanalysis, ratings analysis, demographic analysis, security analysis, andthe like.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary method for providing services. Themethod of FIG. 5 will be discussed, for an example illustration, inreference to FIGS. 1-3. In step 502, a user and/or user device can beauthenticated with the first service 126. In an aspect, the user and/oruser device can be associated with the first service 126 by the firstuser identifier 206. As an example, the first user identifier 206 can beauthenticated by the first service 126. As a further example,authenticating the user can comprise authenticating user credentialsassociated with the user and the first service 126.

In step 504, an opaque identifier 300 can be generated (e.g., created,retrieved, populated, associated, registered and the like). In anaspect, the opaque identifier 300 can be associated with the user andthe first service 126. As an example, the opaque identifier 300 canfacilitate the collection of data relating to one or more services. Inan aspect, the opaque identifier 300 can be transparent to the firstservice 126. As a further example, the opaque identifier 300 can beanonymous to another service, such as the second service 128. In anaspect, the opaque identifier 300 can facilitate the anonymouscollection of data relating to one or more services. In an aspect, theopaque identifier 300 can be generated specifically for the secondservice 128. As an example, the opaque identifier 300 can be associatedwith the second service 128 via a registration/setup process. In anaspect, the registration/setup process comprises a user providingauthentication credentials and demographic information to the firstservice 126. The first service 126 can use the user information togenerate a data token such as the opaque identifier 300 that ispresented via an application deep link, to the user device. The deeplink can enable the user device to store the opaque identifier 300 andto activate a monitoring feature to monitor the second service 128.

In step 506, authentication of the opaque identifier 300 can berequested from the second service 128. In an aspect, the opaqueidentifier 300 can be processed by the second service 128 to determinewhether the opaque identifier 300 is valid and/or authenticated. As anexample, the opaque identifier 300 can be specifically generated for thesecond service 128, such that the second service 128 can anonymouslyauthenticate the opaque identifier 300 without having to know personalinformation relating to the user (or device) of the opaque identifier300. In an aspect, the second service 128 is not required toauthenticate the opaque identifier 300. As an example, the secondservice 128 can act as a conduit for the opaque identifier 300. As afurther example, a mechanism can be included at the second service 128to authenticate the opaque identifier 300. In an aspect, theauthenticity of a given opaque identifier can be confirmed, for example,through the use of digital signature techniques that involve the use ofshared secrets and cryptographic hashes (e.g. HMAC-SHA1). In an aspect,the first service 126 can verify opaque identifiers that have beenissued by the first service 126. However, limiting the use of opaqueidentifiers to only those identifiers that have been authenticated bythe second service can be implemented for performance optimization.

In step 508, if the authentication of the opaque identifier 300 isgranted (e.g., at the first service 126 and/or second service 128), theprocess can continue to step 512. If authentication of the opaqueidentifier 300 is denied (e.g., at the first service 126 and/or secondservice 128), an error response can be generated at step 510.

In step 512, content can be processed (e.g., converted, rendered,presented, displayed, consumed, etc.) using the second service 128. Inan aspect, the second service 128 can comprise one or more contentplayers for converting an input into a rendered presentation such asaudio or video presentation capable of being consumed by a user. As anexample, the second service 128 can comprise a streaming content sourcesuch as a converter, a digital recorder, a network storage device, agaming system, and/or media systems.

In step 514, data relating to the processing of content can becollected. For example, collection can comprise receiving data viaautomated push or pull data gathering operations. In an aspect, userdata, such as user data 215, can be collected based upon the contentprocessed in step 512. As an example, the data can be collectedanonymously. As a further example, the opaque identifier 300 canfacilitate the anonymous collection of data. In an aspect, datacollection can be anonymous with respect to the second service 128,because the second service 128 does not understand the identitycomprised by the opaque identifier 300. As an example, the datacollection may not be anonymous with respect to the first service 126,because the first service 126 created the opaque identifier 300 andunderstands content and associations represented by the opaqueidentifier 300.

In an exemplary aspect, a user can log into a first service 126 such asa service for ratings panelists, secret shoppers, reviewers, or datacollectors, for example. As an example, the user can be prompted toselect a second service for conducting anonymous collection of data. Asa further example, the first service 126 can automatically provide useraccess to the second service 128 using an anonymous identifier or opaqueidentifier 300. In an aspect, the second service 128 can be a contentproviding service, whereby the user can consume content. As an example,the second service 128 can provide content programming and the firstservice 126 can comprise a ratings service for determining ratings,audience metrics such as size or composition, regional or marketstatistics, and/or viewership of a particular content or programmingprovided via the second service 128. In an aspect, the second service128 can process the opaque identifier 300 to allow access to the contentprovided by the second service 128. Since the opaque identifier 300 isanonymous to the second service 128, the second service 128 can allowthe user, device, and/or the first service 126 to track the contentand/or information relating to the content without divulging the actualidentity of the user and or device. In an aspect, the first service 126can receive data from the second service 128 that is associated with theopaque identifier 300. In this way, the first service 126 can processthe data knowing the identity of the user. As an example, audiencepanelists can use the first service 126 and the opaque identifier 300 toanonymously collect data relating to the second service 128, whileallowing the first service 126 to access identifiable information aboutthe audience panelists. In an aspect, the first service 126 and thesecond service 128 can be executed by a single device. For example, thefirst service 126 and the second service 128 can be software stored andexecuted on a user device. As another example, the first service 126 canbe a portal accessible via a network communication channel and thesecond service 128 can be software stored on a user device. In anaspect, the first service 126 and the second service 128 can be stored,accessed, and/or executed via separate devices. As an example, a firstdevice can be used to register with the first service 126 and receivethe opaque identifier 300. As a further example, a second separatedevice can be used to access the second service 128 using the opaqueidentifier 300. The first service 126 and/or the second service 128 canbe or comprise software, applications, devices, and the like.

In an exemplary aspect, the methods and systems can be implemented on acomputing system such as computing device 601 as illustrated in FIG. 6and described below. By way of example, one or more of the first service126 and the second service 128 of FIGS. 1-2 can be an application, asubscription service, a ratings service, a data collection service, aservice provider function, and/or a service computing device. As afurther example, one or more of the first service 126 and the secondservice 128 can be a computing device such as illustrated in FIG. 6.Similarly, the methods and systems disclosed can utilize one or morecomputers to perform one or more functions in one or more locations.FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary operatingenvironment for performing the disclosed methods. One skilled in the artwill appreciate that provided herein is a functional description andthat the respective functions can be performed by software, hardware, ora combination of software and hardware. This exemplary operatingenvironment is only an example of an operating environment and is notintended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use orfunctionality of operating environment architecture. Neither should theoperating environment be interpreted as having any dependency orrequirement relating to any one or combination of components illustratedin the exemplary operating environment.

The present methods and systems can be operational with numerous othergeneral purpose or special purpose computing system environments orconfigurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments,and/or configurations that can be suitable for use with the systems andmethods comprise, but are not limited to, personal computers, servercomputers, laptop devices, and multiprocessor systems. Additionalexamples comprise set top boxes, programmable consumer electronics,network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computingenvironments that comprise any of the above systems or devices, and thelike.

The processing of the disclosed methods and systems can be performed bysoftware components. The disclosed systems and methods can be describedin the general context of computer-executable instructions, such asprogram modules, being executed by one or more computers or otherdevices. Generally, program modules comprise computer code, routines,programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that performparticular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Thedisclosed methods can also be practiced in grid-based and distributedcomputing environments where tasks are performed by remote processingdevices that are linked through a communications network. In adistributed computing environment, program modules can be located inboth local and remote computer storage media including memory storagedevices.

Further, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the systems andmethods disclosed herein can be implemented via a general-purposecomputing device in the form of a computer 601. The components of thecomputer 601 can comprise, but are not limited to, one or moreprocessors or processing units 603, a system memory 612, and a systembus 613 that couples various system components including the processor603 to the system memory 612. In the case of multiple processing units603, the system can utilize parallel computing.

The system bus 613 represents one or more of several possible types ofbus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, aperipheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or localbus using any of a variety of bus architectures. By way of example, sucharchitectures can comprise an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus,a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, an Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, aVideo Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, an AcceleratedGraphics Port (AGP) bus, and a Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI),a PCI-Express bus, a Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association(PCMCIA), Universal Serial Bus (USB) and the like. The bus 613, and allbuses specified in this description can also be implemented over a wiredor wireless network connection and each of the subsystems, including theprocessor 603, a mass storage device 604, an operating system 605,service software 606, service data 607, a network adapter 608, systemmemory 612, an Input/Output Interface 610, a display adapter 609, adisplay device 611, and a human machine interface 602, can be containedwithin one or more remote computing devices 614 a,b,c at physicallyseparate locations, connected through buses of this form, in effectimplementing a fully distributed system.

The computing device 601 typically comprises a variety of computerreadable media. Exemplary readable media can be any available media thatis accessible by the computing device 601 and comprises, for example andnot meant to be limiting, both volatile and non-volatile media,removable and non-removable media. The system memory 612 comprisescomputer readable media in the form of volatile memory, such as randomaccess memory (RAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read onlymemory (ROM). The system memory 612 typically contains data, such asservice data 607, and/or program modules, such as operating system 605and service software 606 that are immediately accessible to and/or arepresently operated on by the processing unit 603.

In another aspect, the computing 601 can also comprise otherremovable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer storage media.By way of example, FIG. 6 illustrates a mass storage device 604 whichcan provide non-volatile storage of computer code, computer readableinstructions, data structures, program modules, and other data for thecomputing device 601. For example and not meant to be limiting, a massstorage device 604 can be a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk, aremovable optical disk, magnetic cassettes or other magnetic storagedevices, flash memory cards, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) orother optical storage, random access memories (RAM), read only memories(ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), andthe like.

Optionally, any number of program modules can be stored on the massstorage device 604, including by way of example, an operating system 605and service software 606. Each of the operating system 605 and servicesoftware 606 (or some combination thereof) can comprise elements of theprogramming and the service software 606. Service data 607 can also bestored on the mass storage device 604. Service data 607 can be stored inany of one or more databases known in the art. Examples of suchdatabases comprise, DB2®, Microsoft® Access, Microsoft® SQL Server,Oracle®, mySQL, PostgreSQL, and the like. The databases can becentralized or distributed across multiple systems.

In another aspect, the user can enter commands and information into thecomputer 601 via an input device (not shown). Examples of such inputdevices comprise, but are not limited to, a keyboard, pointing device(e.g., a “mouse”), a microphone, a joystick, a scanner, visual systems,such as Microsoft's Kinect, audio systems that process sound such asmusic or speech, a traditional silver remote control, tactile inputdevices such as gloves, a touch-responsive screen, body coverings, andthe like. These and other input devices can be connected to theprocessing unit 603 via a human machine interface 602 that is coupled tothe system bus 613, but can be connected by other interface and busstructures, such as a parallel port, a game port, an IEEE 1394 Port(also known as a Firewire port), a serial port, or a universal serialbus (USB).

In yet another aspect, a display device 611 can also be connected to thesystem bus 613 via an interface, such as a display adapter 609. It iscontemplated that the computer 601 can have more than one displayadapter 609 and the computing device 601 can have more than one displaydevice 611. For example, a display device can be a monitor, an LCD(Liquid Crystal Display), or a projector. In addition to the displaydevice 611, other output peripheral devices can comprise components suchas speakers (not shown) and a printer (not shown) which can be connectedto the computing device 601 via Input/Output Interface 610. Any stepand/or result of the methods can be output in any form to an outputdevice. Such output can be any form of visual representation, including,but not limited to, textual, graphical, animation, audio, tactile, andthe like. The display 611 and computing device 601 can be part of onedevice, or separate devices.

The computing device 601 can operate in a networked environment usinglogical connections to one or more remote computing devices 614 a,b,c.By way of example, a remote computing device can be a personal computer,a portable computer, a smartphone, a server, a router, a networkcomputer, a peer device or other common network node, and so on. Logicalconnections between the computing device 601 and a remote computingdevice 614 a,b,c can be made via a network 615, such as a local areanetwork (LAN) and a general wide area network (WAN). Such networkconnections can be through a network adapter 608. A network adapter 608can be implemented in both wired and wireless environments. Suchnetworking environments are conventional and commonplace in dwellings,offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, and the Internet.

For purposes of illustration, application programs and other executableprogram components such as the operating system 605 are illustratedherein as discrete blocks, although it is recognized that such programsand components reside at various times in different storage componentsof the computing device 601, and are executed by the data processor(s)of the computer. An implementation of service software 606 can be storedon or transmitted across some form of computer readable media. Any ofthe disclosed methods can be performed by computer readable instructionsembodied on computer readable media. Computer readable media can be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of exampleand not meant to be limiting, computer readable media can comprise“computer storage media” and “communications media.” “Computer storagemedia” comprise volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removablemedia implemented in any methods or technology for storage ofinformation, such as computer readable instructions, data structures,program modules, or other data. Exemplary computer storage mediacomprises, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory orother memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or otheroptical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic diskstorage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which canbe used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by acomputer.

The methods and systems can employ Artificial Intelligence techniquessuch as machine learning and iterative learning. Examples of suchtechniques include, but are not limited to, expert systems, case-basedreasoning, Bayesian networks, behavior-based AI, neural networks, fuzzysystems, evolutionary computation (e.g. genetic algorithms), swarmintelligence (e.g. ant algorithms), and hybrid intelligent systems (e.g.Expert inference rules generated through a neural network or productionrules from statistical learning).

While the methods and systems have been described in connection withpreferred embodiments and specific examples, it is not intended that thescope be limited to the particular embodiments set forth, as theembodiments herein are intended in all respects to be illustrativerather than restrictive.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that anymethod set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps beperformed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim doesnot actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is nototherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that thesteps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intendedthat an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possiblenon-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic withrespect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaningderived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and/or the numberor type of embodiments described in the specification.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made without departing from thescope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled inthe art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosedherein. It is intended that the specification and examples be consideredas exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving at least onemessage corresponding to presentation of content at a user device,wherein the at least one message comprises an identifier associated withthe user device; determining, based on the at least one message, dataassociated with the presentation of the content at the user device;determining, based on the identifier, demographic data associated withthe user device; and generating, based on the demographic data and thedata associated with the presentation of the content at the user device,ratings data associated with the presentation of the content.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the identifier is anonymous to a contentconsumption data collection service and transparent to a demographicdata collection service.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the dataassociated with the presentation of the content at the user devicecomprises an indication of an event, wherein the event comprises atleast one of: a license request, a license grant, a subscriptionlife-cycle, a license denial, a channel tune, a remote tune, a remotecontrol event, a playpoint audit, a playback event, a program starttime, a program end time, a commercial time, or a playlist timing event.4. The method of claim 1, wherein the data associated with thepresentation of the content at the user device comprises user data,wherein the user data comprises at least one of: a content setting, anenvironmental setting, a presentation setting, a viewing pattern, aduration of content presentation, or a time associated with presentationof the content.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the content settingcomprises at least one of: a genre, a rating, a parental block, asubtitle, a version of content, a time schedule, or a permission.
 6. Themethod of claim 4, wherein the environmental setting comprises at leastone of: a temperature, lighting, or tactile feedback.
 7. The method ofclaim 4, wherein the presentation setting comprises at least one of: avolume, a brightness, a color, a playback language, a closed caption, aplayback speed, picture-in-picture, or split display.
 8. The method ofclaim 1, wherein determining, based on the identifier, the demographicdata associated with the user device comprises: sending, to ademographic data collection service, the identifier; and receiving,based on the identifier, the demographic data, wherein the demographicdata is associated with a unique consumer of content represented by theidentifier.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the demographic datacomprises at least one of: an age, a gender, or an address associatedwith a unique consumer of content.
 10. The method of claim 1, whereingenerating the ratings data comprises associating at least one of: aportion of the demographic data or a portion of the data associated withthe presentation of the content, with the content.
 11. A methodcomprising: receiving at least one message corresponding to content sentto a user device, wherein the at least one message comprises anindication of a presentation setting and an identifier associated withthe user device; determining, based on the presentation setting, aportion of the content presented at the user device; determining, basedon the identifier, demographic data associated with the user device; andgenerating, based on the demographic data, ratings data associated withthe portion of the content.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein theidentifier is anonymous to a content consumption data collection serviceand transparent to a demographic data collection service.
 13. The methodof claim 11, wherein the at least one message further comprises at leastone of: a license request, a license grant, a subscription life-cycle, alicense denial, a channel tune, a remote tune, a remote control event, aplaypoint audit, a playback event, a program start time, a program endtime, a commercial time, or a playlist timing event.
 14. The method ofclaim 11, wherein the at least one message further comprises user data,wherein the user data comprises at least one of: a content setting, anenvironmental setting, a presentation setting, a viewing pattern, aduration of content presentation, or a time associated with presentationof the content.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the content settingcomprises at least one of: a genre, a rating, a parental block, asubtitle, a version of content, a time schedule, or a permission. 16.The method of claim 14, wherein the environmental setting comprises atleast one of: a temperature, lighting, or tactile feedback.
 17. Themethod of claim 14, wherein the presentation setting comprises at leastone of: a volume, a brightness, a color, a playback language, a closedcaption, a playback speed, picture-in-picture, or split display.
 18. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the portion of the content presented at theuser device comprises an advertisement, wherein the presentation settingcomprises a playback speed, and wherein determining, based on thepresentation setting, the portion of the content presented at the userdevice comprises determining that the playback speed indicates theadvertisement was presented at the user device.
 19. The method of claim11, wherein the demographic data comprises at least one of: an age, agender, or an address associated with a unique consumer of content, andwherein determining, based on the identifier, the demographic dataassociated with the user device comprises: sending, to a demographicdata collection service, the identifier; and receiving, based on theidentifier, the demographic data, wherein the demographic data isassociated with a unique consumer of content represented by theidentifier.
 20. The method of claim 11, wherein generating the ratingsdata comprises associating a portion of the demographic data with theportion of the content.